Israel has announced that it will allow two trucks carrying diesel fuel to enter the Gaza Strip each day, in response to a US request to support the UN’s provision of water and sanitation in the region. However, as of Friday, no fuel has actually reached Gaza, leaving the UN’s agency for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa) on the brink of suspending its activities due to the lack of fuel. The fuel deliveries are intended to prevent the outbreak of epidemics and support the struggling healthcare system in Gaza.
The announcement of limited fuel delivery comes in the wake of increasing concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously warned of “worrying trends” in the spread of disease in Gaza, citing the lack of fuel and Israeli bombardment as major factors disrupting the healthcare system and sanitation facilities. Shockingly high numbers of acute respiratory infections and cases of diarrhoea have been recorded, highlighting the urgent need for fuel in Gaza.
Fuel is essential for running the enclave’s desalination plant, providing electricity to homes and hospitals, and maintaining sanitation, transport, and communications infrastructure. It also plays a crucial role in facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid. However, data from the Egyptian Red Crescent and Unrwa reveals that no aid has entered the Gaza Strip in the past three days due to the lack of fuel.
Israel has been blocking fuel from entering Gaza, citing concerns that it may be stolen by Hamas and used for military purposes. This restriction exacerbates the already dire situation in the region, as Gaza heavily relies on Israel for electricity, with the enclave’s power plant currently inoperable.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza originated from Hamas’s attack in early October, resulting in multiple casualties and hostages. In response, Israel launched retaliatory strikes, resulting in a significant loss of life in the territory. The situation has escalated further due to Israel’s fuel blockade, leading to a growing humanitarian crisis.
While Israel’s decision to allow limited fuel delivery is a step in the right direction, it does not fully address the urgent needs of the population in Gaza. The amount of fuel being allowed is just over a third of what Unrwa estimates is necessary for basic humanitarian operations. To prevent further suffering and loss of life, it is crucial for Israel to reassess its fuel blockade policies and work towards a sustainable solution.
The international community should also step up its efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Increased financial and logistical support is needed to provide essential services, improve healthcare facilities, and ensure the delivery of aid. Additionally, diplomatic pressure must be exerted to facilitate a lasting ceasefire and foster dialogue between Israel and Gaza.
Without immediate action, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza will continue to escalate, endangering innocent lives and undermining regional stability. It is vital for all stakeholders to prioritize the well-being and rights of the people in Gaza, and work towards a sustainable solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict.
